The shape of the tree is important, but the shape of the leaves is just as important. For example, the shape leaves of one type of tree can be very, very different from that of another type of tree. Leaf shape and the other elements of the leaves can have a great impact on the overall appearance of the tree, such elements include color and texture.

When it comes to backyard landscaping, the texture of the plants and how they compare to corresponding, or adjacent plants is key to a good visual effect. You want the bedding plants to look nice by each other, and you want some variety, but not haphazard variety, you want planned variety. When you look at your backyard landscaping there should be a natural path that the eye follows. You want the elements of your backyard landscaping design to direct the eye to the features that are most impressive or matter most, whether that is a fountain, a flower bed, or a patio area. The eye's movement or flow can be governed by the arrangement of plants and their borders.

So, now that we have discussed how different plants and shapes and lines effect backyard landscaping, let's get specific with 3 areas you need to work on:

1. Get variety:

You want a variety of shapes and colors, textures, and even smells, but you do not want to look sloppy. Choose differing heights of plants with corresponding shapes, and complimentary colors. If you want an area to stand out, use a variety of color that contrasts against the main colors of the area, this will visually bring the eye to that location.

2. Be practical:

You want your backyard landscaping to be visually beautiful, but you also do not want spend your entire life out in the yard weeding, and pruning, and maintaining it. So, when you plan your backyard landscaping, find plants that are low maintenance, such as ground cover, you can still have color, but not as much work. Choose trees that do not lose as many leaves, or that are fruit or flower free, as those are things you have to clean up as they fall. Also, utilize elements such as rocks and stones that do not take any upkeep, and can really make your yard look nice. Also, if it is all decorative, and there is no room to play, you won't enjoy your backyard at all, so while it needs to look nice, plan spaces for outdoor play, a sand box maybe, and a patio for grilling and parties.

3. Think Long-term:

You want to have a cost efficient yard, otherwise you will let it go to hash because it is too expensive to keep it up. When you put in your backyard landscaping, put in a sprinkler system, but also put in plants that do not require constant watering. Plan your trees to shade your house which will reduce your utility bills. This won't happen right away as your trees won't be large enough, but in the future it will add comfort to your home and backyard. Also, plan windbreaks, etc.